The Sixth Annual Sommelier Challenge Results Are In!
International Wine Competition Sommelier Challenge
September 20/21, 2014
The sixth annual Sommelier Challenge took place in San Diego over the 20th and 21st of September. Hosted by the International Wine Competition, the event showcased over 800 wines from all corners of the winemaking world. Wines from the Old Bridge Cellars portfolio once again performed well with two Platinum, five Gold and six Silver Medals awarded:
PLATINUM
94 pts – d’Arenberg, McLaren Vale (South Australia) Viognier Marsanne ‘The Hermit Crab’ 2012
This wine just screams for seafood — in the best way possible. It even smells like the ocean, with hints of fresh sea spray intertwined with grilled white peach and spicy honeysuckle. On the palate, it’s very crisp and vibrant, and delivers the slightest briny note with the fruit elements, and cleansing acidity that leaves the grilled peach and a bit of lime zest to refresh you for the next bite. Of what, you ask? Oysters, scallops or lemon-focused fish preps will work splendidly
94 pts – Innocent Bystander, Yarra Valley (Victoria) Pinot Noir 2013
The trend toward beautifully made and affordable Pinot Noir is a recent phenomenon in California, and now the Aussies are getting in on the act. This spicy Pinot from the cool Yarra Valley was a huge hit with judges at the 6th annual Sommelier Challenge, taking a platinum award despite its modest price. Well balanced and refined, it exhibits inviting red-fruit aromas, a spicy nose, and a long, lingering finish.
GOLD
90 pts – d’Arenberg, Mclaren Vale (South Australia) Laughing Magpie Shiraz 2010
90 pts – Maison L’Envoyé, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Two Messengers Pinot Noir 2012
90 pts – Brokenwood, Hunter Valley (New South Wales) Semillon 2013
90 pts – John Duval, Barossa Valley (South Australia) Entity Shiraz 2012
90 pts – Stickybeak, Sonoma Coast (California) Pinot Noir 2012
SILVER
89 pts – d’Arenberg, McLaren Vale (South Australia) Dead Arm Shiraz 2010
89 pts – Frisk, Alpine Valleys (Victoria) Riesling 2013
89 pts – John Duval, Barossa Valley (South Australia) Plexus 201
89 pts – Maison L’Envoyé, Burgundy (France) Bourgogne Blanc 2012
87 pts – Kilikanoon, Clare Valley (South Australia) Covenant Shiraz 2010
87 pts – Penley Estate, Coonawarra (South Australia) Phoenix Cab Sav 2012